At the Sir James Henderson, we believe that all students can become artists and designers and the aim of our department is to help them achieve this goal. There is a saying that “artists are strange people”, at the SJHS Art Department we have the saying “All people are strange artists”.
In order for students to gain a convincing command over their imagery, they are assisted on a solid structure which covers both concept and technique, using a wide range of varied materials.
The Art Department was first established 30 years ago in September 1977 with the introduction of G.C.E. and A level examination courses in art and design. From this date the department has gained considerable success, especially since students are not selected. Students who join the school who have limited previous experience of a structured art course are accepted and achieve convincing results, as the emphasis is firmly placed on discipline, attention to detail and regular homework studies.
All levels from Year 7 through to A2 work with concepts, techniques and research in their journals which are viewed and evaluated by staff in one lesson every week.
Drawing, painting, printing and 3 dimensional work are the practices covered and photography and computer assisted imagery are encouraged. In September 2007 the small pottery studio will be available to small working groups.
Each November the school holds an open evening when parents and friends are invited to see an exhibition which shows a range of high quality work done by students at Key Stage 3, 4 and 5.
Both GCSE and A level courses have an impressive record regarding results and all students who have applied to art institutes all over the world have been accepted at their first choice. In recent years many Sir James art students have gone on to St. Martin’s College of Art in London. In 2006, 5 Sir James graduates were studying at this prestigious school of art. Other Sir James alumni have obtained degrees in Architecture, Fashion, Film/Video, Scenery, Ceramics, Transport Design, Special Effects (Film), Illustration, Mural Design, Advertising and Art Instruction.